Proclamation Infestation

The Escambia County Commission is gearing up to make a good many proclamations during this week’s meeting.

This Saturday may be proclaimed as “Rosamond Johnson Beach Day.” In designating May 5, 2012 as this day, the county intends to honor Private Johnson, an “African-American hero and the first Escambia County resident to die in the Korean Conflict on July 26, 1950. The Purple-Heart recipient was killed at the age of 17, had county-owned portion of Pensacola Beach named after him and was memorialized with a monument in 1996.

A few days later, May 5, 2012, may be recognized as “Bay Day.” The county has, according to the recommended proclamation, “identified the day as an opportunity to educate students on the importance or our bays and estuaries as a vital part of our economic well-being and quality of life.”

Commissioners will consider making next week “Arson Awareness Week.” The week’s theme will be “Prevent Youth Firesetting.”

Another proclamation on the table during this week’s meeting concerns the country of Jamaica. In consideration of the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence, commissioners will consider adopting a proclamation extending “greetings and best wishes to all Jamaican nationals here and abroad.”

The board will also be considering a proclamation commemorating the 50th anniversary of independence for both Trinidad and Tobago. The board is aiming to celebrate the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago 50 years after the islands were granted independence from Britain.

Lastly, commissioners will consider adopting a proclamation honoring Pensacola Christian School and College founders Dr. Arlin Horton and Mrs. Beka Horton. The couple is wrapping up 38 years at the college and 58 years with Pensacola Christian Academy.

The Escambia County Commission meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Thursday.